caustic soda

Caustic soda, also known as caustic soda, is a mineral compound with the formula NaOH. The chemical is a white solid ionic compound composed of sodium cations Na+ and hydroxide anions OH-. Sodium hydroxide is a highly corrosive base and alkali that decomposes proteins at normal ambient temperatures and can cause severe chemical burns. It is highly soluble in water and readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air. Sodium hydroxide is used in many industries: in the manufacture of wood pulp and paper, textiles, drinking water, soaps and detergents, and as a wastewater cleaner.